7 Walking Tips That Might Be Holding You Back After Stroke

🧠 STOP Looking Up When You Walk | Bad Walking Advice After Stroke (What to Do Instead)
Are you following walking tips that might actually be hurting your stroke recovery?

In this video, neurologic physical therapist Tara shares 7 common pieces of advice stroke survivors are often told in rehab — and explains why many of them are wrong, outdated, or even dangerous. Whether it's using a HEMI walker, being told to “walk heel-toe,” or hearing you should never look down when walking — these cues could be making your gait worse instead of better.

✅ Learn the alternatives that actually promote smoother, safer, and more efficient walking.

🔍 What You'll Learn:
• Why assistive devices on the strong side may backfire
• The truth about AFOs (ankle foot orthoses) and how to choose the right one
• When walking speed shouldn’t be your main goal
• Why “heel-toe” can sabotage your foot clearance
• What to focus on instead of glute strength
• And the big one: why “Don’t look down” might be dangerous advice

⏱️ Timestamps – "STOP Looking Up When You Walk"
00:00 – Intro: Bad Walking Advice You Might Be Following
01:05 – Why Assistive Devices on the Strong Side Can Backfire
03:52 – The Problem with the HEMI Walker
05:32 – Better Alternatives: Handhold, Walker Modifications, Hiking Stick
06:50 – Mistake #2: "Any AFO Will Work" – Why That's False
08:45 – Off-the-Shelf AFOs vs. Personalized Fittings
10:05 – Why You Shouldn’t Toss Your AFO Too Soon
11:30 – Walking Speed Isn't Always the Priority
13:00 – The Truth About “Heel-Toe” Cues
14:05 – “Strengthen Your Glutes” – Not Always the Right Focus
15:20 – The Real Deal on “Don’t Look Down” While Walking

📨 BOOK AN IN-PERSON APPOINTMENT WITH TARA HERE:
https://www.orlandoneurotherapy.com
Please only email if you would like to schedule an in-person evaluation. All other inquiries received via www.orlandoneurotherapy.com will be deleted.

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🧠 Are you ready to learn the tools essential for your rehab success?
🌟 BECOME A GOLD MEMBER:
Join our growing community and get instant access to coaching sessions with Dr. Tara and over 400 stroke recovery exercises.
https://rehab-hq.com/become-a-member

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Disclaimer: The information in this video is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content is for general informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with your own healthcare provider.